Chosen: Ephesians 1:21

Chosen: Ephesians 1:21 by ric gustafson

Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin was a group of political and religious rule makers. They worked on statues, Sabbath observances, purity and tithing laws. They had the power to change a law whenever they wanted. 

Nicodemus's life changed when he met Jesus. To Nicodemus, Jesus did not stand out or look important. Jesus gave compassion and grace. Jesus cast out demons and performed miracles. Deep down, Nicodemus knew Jesus was sent by God. He knew he would have to give up everything to believe in Jesus. He would have to give up position, power and his livlihood.  Nicodemus believed in Jesus. He was willing to take that risk to follow him. Are we ready to take that risk?. 

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 3: 18-19

 Chosen: John 3: 18-19 by ric gustafson

Nicodemus was a renowned Pharisee. He had a reputation and a career at stake. But he was curious about Jesus. Yet, he was scared to be seen with Jesus. So what did he decide to do?. He decided to see Jesus quietly at night. He told Jesus right off the bat that he was a teacher come from God. Jesus told Nicodemus that whoever believes in him has eternal life. 

Nicodemus did not follow Jesus until after he was crucified. In John 19, Nicodemus helped Joseph of Arimathea prepare Jesus's body and properly bury him in a tomb. Why the change?. Nobody knows. But Nicodemus came out of the dark and into the light. He became a follower of Jesus.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Searching for Reagan page 2

Searching for Reagan page 2 by ric gustafson

In 1980 and 1984, Reagan won the election by a landslide. Reagan was a great writer who wrote letters, radio scripts and columns. Reagan was a storyteller. He liked using stories in his speeches. Reagan distrusted leftism. Reagan believed in hope and freedom. Reagan loved Ralph Waldo Emerson. Emerson was an early advocate of liberty and independence. Reagan believed in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Morale was important to Reagan.

Reagan despised Soviet Communism. His plan was to defeat this Evil Empire. He made a pact with Pope John Paul II and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Why did Reagan call the Soviet Union  the Evil Empire?. Because Communism had been winning since the Second World War. Reagan decided it was time to go on the offense. We won the Cold War.

Reagan helped change the Republican Party. The Party became more Western, conservative and more populist. Reagan also changed the Party's appeal. Reagan's new message for the Party became family, work, neighborhood, freedom and peace. The country at the time was struggling politically, culturally, militarily and economically. Reagan wanted that to stop.

research help: ' The search for Reagan' by Craig Shirley

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Chosen: Luke 6: 19-20

 Chosen: Luke 6: 19-20 by ric gustafson

People came out in droves to hear Jesus. Everybody wanted to touch Jesus. Power came out from Jesus and healed them all. There was no crowd control. It did not matter to Jesus how many came to him, Jesus helped them all. 

When Jesus talked about the poor in Luke 6, he was talking about the poor in spirit. Instead of how this world thinks, Jesus had a different approach. He explained that that the first would be last and the last first. All the broken were blessed. Desperate people were humble and open to what God had to offer.

The people who came to Jesus came to revive their hearts and heal their bodies.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

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Shroud page 13

 Shroud page 13 by ric gustafson

Joachim was dragged in front of Eliphelet.

" Where is your father?". The soldier shook the teenager. " Where is Crispus?".

The teen spat in front of the soldier. " I don't know".

A soldier dragged Selah and a young boy out of the house.

" Where is Crispus?".

Selah and the boy were silent.

" Burn everything". Eliphelet handed a soldier a torch. " Burn it all".

The soldier walked inside and lit the bed mats. Embers from the mats started the roof on fire. An enraged Joachim tried to hit one of the soldiers. Reacting, the soldier took out his dagger and thrust it into Joachim's side. He died almost instantly.

Selah ran over to her dead son. " No! No!".

She held onto her dead son as their house went up in flames. She cried not only for her now dead son but what was in the home. Inside the home was the cup with Jesus's blood.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

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True Grit page 33

 True Grit page 33 by ric gustafson

As I was standing next to  Farrell Permalee, he all of a sudden pointed. " There they be".

I looked to the northwest. I saw two riders at the top of the ridge. It was Marshal Cogburn and LaBoeuf. My horse Little Blackie was tied behind them. Then Rooster shot a pistol. Then Pepper fired an answering shot. Then they rode off over the hill.

" I thought they had grit". I gave Pepper a disappointed stare. " We call it something else in Yell County".

" Chaney, unsaddle that gray".

Chaney looked confused. " I thought I was riding the gray".

" I want you to stay here with the girl until we get back".

I shook my head. " I'm not staying here with Tom Chaney".

" You will if I tell you to".

I stared at Pepper. " He will kill me".

" No, he won't". He stared at Chaney. " If you harm her, you will not get paid".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

 

Searching for Reagan page 1

Searching for Reagan page 1 by ric gustafson

Who was Ronald Reagan?. Ronald Reagan believed in natural rights. He quoted the Founders and the Framers. Reagan won the Cold War. Reagan freed millions of people. Behind the Iron Curtain, Reagan restored American morale. He solved high inflation, high interest rates and created 20 million new jobs. 

Ronald Reagan was an idea man. Reagan was an American Conservative. Ronald Reagan believed in power flowing upward. Reagan believed in restoring power to the individual.

In 1954, Ronald Reagan was a washed up actor and almost broke. He was a supporter of FDR and Harry Truman. He became a Republican in 1964.

research help: ' The Search for Reagan' by Craig Shirley

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Chosen: Luke 6: 6-7

 Chosen: Luke 6: 6-7 by ric gustafson

The Pharisees were more concerned about rules than people. One day, Jesus encountered a man with a withered hand. This was on a Sabbath. Manual labor was necessary to provide for his family. This man could not use his hand. 

The Pharisees were watching Jesus closely. People were flocking to hear him speak and heal. The Pharisees knew Jesus bent the rules. He was confident and unassuming. So people were flocking to him.

According to Luke 6, Jesus healed the man's hand on the Sabbath. The Pharisees were furious. They discussed what to do next to Jesus.

Like the man in our story, Jesus will not turn away from us. Jesus knows our needs.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

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I have called you by name page 4

 I have called you by name page 4 by ric gustafson

A servant of Nicodemus opened the curtain. Nicodemus walked in to notice a line of servants waiting for him. 

Shmuel smiled. " Welcome Rabbi".

Nicodemus looked around. " A fine Torah room indeed". He sat down in the seat of honor.

Just then, a Roman guard ran into the room. He took off his helmet.

Nicodemus stared at the guard. " What do you want Commander?".

He scowled. " At least you know your place".

" Your services have been requested".

Nicodemus frowned. " What's the trouble?".

" There is a Hebrew woman causing a huge disturbance in the Red Quarter".

Nicodemus scratched his chin. " Why do you need me for?".

" She needs a holy man".

" It is not our custom to frequent the Red Quarter".

" Teacher of teachers". The guard put his helmet back on. " You will come with me".

research help: ' The Chosen I have called you by name' by Jerry B Jenkins

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I have called you by name page 3

I have called you by name page 3 by ric gustafson

The carriage stopped. 

Zohara looked out the window. " Why are we stopping Nicodemus?".

Five Roman legionnaires approached the carriage. 

Nicodemus stepped out of the carriage.

A young man wearing an immaculate tunic and an imperial helmet got off his horse.

Nicodemus stared at the young officer. " Why have you stopped us?".

" I am Quintus the praetor of Capernaum".

" Did you come to arrest me?".

" No". He smiled. " I am a magistrate serving Pilate".

" How can I help you?".

" We can help each other".

" How?".

" If you will help me with taxes being unpaid". The young officer's voice hesitated. " I will help the Pharisees to keep thriving".

research help: ' The Chosen I have called you by name' by Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Light of the World: renewing our minds

 Light of the World: renewing our minds by ric gustafson

How do we renew our minds?. Satan tries to tell us with lies that we are unworthy worthless people. We have more than 6,000 thoughts a day. That comes out to 6 thoughts a minute. Sometimes our thoughts create false realities. This includes feeling that we are unworthy, alone and forgotten.

Satan loves to use our minds for his purposes. He places doubt and lies into our heads. He did it to Eve. He does it to us. 

Jesus as the Light of the World uses God's Word to combat Satan and his lies. Jesus is a light in this dark world. Jesus wants God's Word to be written on our hearts. 

Jesus can help us change our thought patterns. He will help us. Why?. Because he loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Arise and Shine' by Allyson Golden

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Chosen: Mark 2: 1-5

 Chosen: Mark 2: 1-5 by ric gustafson

In this bible passage from Mark is a wild scene. There was such a large group of people in this house, latecomers could not get in. There was a man who was paralyzed. He was strapped to a stretcher. His friends could not get him inside this house to be healed by Jesus. They decide to take him up to the roof and lower him down through the roof. 

Inside, Jesus was preaching and healing. Then chunks of the roof fell to the ground. Their friend was lowered toward Jesus. Jesus was moved by the faith of this man's friends. He heals the man. 

The scribes and Pharisees questioned out loud. " Who can forgive sins but God alone?". Jesus knew what they were thinking. Jesus said to the young man. " Pick up your bed and go home".

The young man did what Jesus said. Everyone was amazed.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

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Chosen: Luke 5:12

 Chosen: Luke 5:12 by ric gustafson

In Jesus's time, leprosy was a horrible condition. At the time, there was no known cure. Wounds grew all over one's body. There was a degeneration of the skin. Eventually, it deformed the person. Fingers, toes, ears and noses would rot away. 

The person had to show themselves to a priest. The priest would evaluate the person. The priest would declare the person either clean or unclean. If you were unclean, you were banished from the city. The people were forced into caves or tents. Death was their only hope.

Then Jesus arrived. One day, a leper approached Jesus. He saw Jesus. He fell on his face. He told Jesus " you can make me clean". 

Jesus touched him. The leprosy left him. He was cleansed. Jesus restored his soul.

Jesus can make us clean. He will if we ask him.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

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I have called you by name page 2

 I have called you by name page 2 by ric gustafson

One day in the city of Capernaum, a woman in her early thirties bolts upright from her bed. She gasped from the dream she had just had. She looked around. She thought to herself ' where am I?'. She gets up. She walks over to a mirror. She looks at herself. She is shocked. Her face is painted. 

What happened last night?. She has blood on her palms. Her nails are broken on both hands.

She hears a noise outside. " She tried to kill me".

The man was pointing to her room. " She is possessed by demons".

A big Roman guard grabbed him. " What are talking about you filthy dog?".

The man was still pointing at my room. " That woman has demons inside her".

Mary looked around her room. She had been living at Rivka's inn for some time now. Instead of Mary, she had been going by the name of Lilith. 

Mary was used to being accused of having demons inside her. To Mary, it was nothing new.

research help: ' The Chosen I have called you by name' by Jerry B Jenkins

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Chosen: John 2: 23-25

 Chosen: John 2: 23-25 by ric gustafson

God watches us at all times. He watches us in the good times and the bad times. This human race is wretched and sinful. People were in awe of what Jesus was doing. People followed him wherever he went. They watched him preach.

One day, Jesus healed ten lepers. Only one came back to thank him. The lepers begged for mercy. Jesus healed them. Only one said thanks.

Some people want the perks of a relationship with Jesus. But they do not want an actual relationship with Jesus. Jesus is looking for people to be his own and serve him. He is not looking for people who just want a miracle. Are we ready to serve Jesus and be one of his?.

research help: ' the Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Reluctant Beatle page 9

 the Reluctant Beatle page 9 by ric gustafson

Harrison met up with his bandmates after they had returned from Hamburg. The three and a half months in Hamburg had not helped their career. George's parents were still supportive. Paul's father and John's Aunt Mimi wanted them to go and get regular jobs.

A friend of the band, Bob Wooler, got the band a gig at the Litherland Town Hall. Those who came to the gig that night watched the Beatles as they started with ' Long Tall Sally'.

A club called the ' Cavern Club' had started out being a local jazz club. Then they changed and let rock and roll groups perform there. 

The club was primitive. It had no air conditioning, smoke alarms or even an emergency exit. During the lunch hour, young office and shop workers would come in and listen to live music. 

One day, the Beatles were hired to be the lunch time band.

research help: ' George Harrison the Reluctant Beatle' by Philip Norman

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I have called you by name page 1

I have called you by name page 1 by ric gustafson

Shimon looked through the stable door. He saw a man a woman and a baby in swaddling clothes. When his three shepherd friends arrived, they burst through the door.

Mary and Joseph looked at the strangers with fear on their faces.

Yoram spoke up to ease their minds. " We heard the angel's announcement and the heavenly host".

Joseph noticed Shimon. " You gave us water to drink in the marketplace".

Shimon smiled. " Yes".

Shimon and the others stared at the baby. It was now sleeping. 

Yoram gushed. " So beautiful".

Natan looked at Mary and Joseph. " We could help you find better lodging".

Joseph replied. " We're fine".

Shimon asked. " What will you name him?".

Joseph smiled at Mary. " We are going to name him Jesus".

" We must go". Aaron grinned. " People must know".

All four smile at Mary and Joseph. They run out.

research help: ' The Chosen I have called you by name" by Jerry B Jenkins

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Luke 5: 30-32

 Chosen: Luke 5: 30-32 by ric gustafson

In Luke 5, the scribes and the Pharisees grumble not at Jesus but his disciples. They asked the disciples why Jesus eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners. The disciples did not know if Jesus was the Messiah yet. They knew Jesus already had a reputation. People were coming from Galilee, Judea and Jerusalem to see him and watch him heal. Jesus was still getting to know the 12. Jesus told those who asked the question that he was calling sinners to repentance. 

Who are sinners who need repentance?. We are. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 32

 True Grit page 32 by ric gustafson

" Are you listening to me Rooster?".

" Yes Ned I am".

" You and whoever is with you has five minutes to mount and leave".

There was no reply.

" Do you hear me Rooster?".

" We will need more time Ned".

" I will not give you any more".

" Ned, there will be a party of Marshals here soon". Cogburn's voice hesitated. " Give me Chaney and the girl and I will mislead them".

Pepper gave me a smirk. " I don't trust you Rooster".

" I'll cover you till dark".

" Too thin Rooster". Pepper glanced at his watch. " Your five minutes is running".

" Ok Ned we're leaving".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 31

 True Grit page 31 by ric gustafson

" Rooster".

Cogburn knew who's voice it was.

I was on the ground with Pepper's boot on my neck.

" Rooster, can you hear me?".

There was no reply.

" Answer me Rooster". Pepper's voice got louder. " Or I will kill the girl".

" The girl is nothing to me Ned" replied Rooster. " She's a runaway from Arkansas".

" What do you want me to do with her Rooster?". Pepper's voice hesitated. " Kill her".

" Ned, do what you think is best". 

LaBoeuf looked at Cogburn. " Cogburn, what are you doing?".

" Hush". He cleared his throat. " Ned, I would think it over first".

I was still under Ned's boot. " My name is Mattie Ross from near Dardanelle Arkansas".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 12

 Shroud page 12 by ric gustafson

The legate of the Imperial Guard walked into the king's private chamber.

" Your Highness". He smiled. " Mesrop has returned".

Mesrop entered with another man behind him. Mesrop was holding a leather case.

" Your Highness, I bring you a greeting from the Apostle Simon Peter". 

King Abgar stared at the stranger. " And who is this?".

" Your Highness, this is the Apostle Thaddeus".

The king smiled. " You are one of the twelve". 

Thaddeus bowed. " I am".

" Here is a gift from Peter". Mesrop handed the king the leather case. " It is a gift for your safe keeping".

Mesrop opened the case. He carefully took out the cloth. He handed it to the king.

" It is the Shroud". The king was speechless as he looked at it. " It is the face of Jesus".

Mesrop smiled. " Peter trusts you to safeguard it".

" I shall safeguard it with my life".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 11

 Shroud page 11 by ric gustafson

Yechezkel handed Andrew the leather case.

The disciple opened it. He carefully took out a strange looking crown.

" What is it Andrew?". Yechezkel yawned. " I had to ride about a week to get it to you".

" The Crown of Thorns".

" There is dried blood on the thorns".

" Yes". Tears began to form in Andrew's eyes. " Jesus's blood".

Andrew put it back into the leather case.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: II Timothy 2:21

 Chosen: II Timothy 2: 21 by ric gustafson

According to II Timothy 2, you can be a vessel for honor and useful to the Master. A vessel is designed and created to contain something. As followers of Jesus, we are vessels for him. As vessels what do we contain?. The answer is Jesus. Matthew was a tax collector. And yet Jesus chose him to be one of his disciples. Jesus doesn't want ability. Jesus just simply wants us to be available. Matthew gave up everything to be with Jesus. Matthew became a vessel for Jesus. We can also.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Proverbs 3: 5-6

 Chosen: Proverbs 3: 5-6 by ric gustafson

Matthew was a tax collector. He knew the system was corrupt. He wanted to get rich. That's how this world thinks. But that is not how Jesus thinks. One day, Jesus came up to this tax collector. He simply said to him Follow Me. Matthew did that.

According to Luke 5, Matthew gave up everything to follow Jesus. Matthew stood face to face with Jesus the Author of Life. The life he was having vanished in a second. 

Matthew became one of Jesus's disciples. Jesus's asks us the same two words. Follow Me.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 31

True Grit page 31 by ric gustafson

Chaney and I heard voices near the edge of the creek. Then I saw two of the bandits. One was a hatless little man in woolly chaps. I figured that was Lucky Ned Pepper. The other was a Mexican in a bear skin coat. I assumed that was Greaser Bob. Then I heard gunshots. I assumed they were shooting at Cogburn and LaBoeuf.

" Take these horses and the girl". Pepper stared at Chaney. " Move".

After a short time, Pepper and Greaser Bob caught up to us. 

Pepper yelled at me. " Who all is down there?".

" Marshal Cogburn and 50 officers".

He shook me. " Don't lie to me".

" Marshal Cogburn and one other man".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 30

 True Grit page 30 by ric gustafson

When I shot the revolver at Chaney, the explosion knocked me backwards. I dropped the gun. I picked it up and pointed it at him. I had struck him in the side. He was now on the ground next to a tree. He was holding his side.

" I didn't think you'd do it".

I heard Cogburn yelling from above. " Are you alright baby sister?".

I yelled back. " I shot Chaney".

" I think one of my ribs is broken".

" You killed my father when he was trying to help you".

" He should not of meddled in my business".

" I heard you shot a senator in Texas".

" That man threatened my life". He looked at his side. " Now I've been shot by a child".

In anger, Chaney threw a huge piece of wood at me. It hit me in the chest. I fell backwards into the stream. Chaney slowly stood up, walked over and pulled me out of the water by my coat.

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Light of the World: our brokenness

Light of the World: our brokenness by ric gustafson

We are broken people. We say things and do things we don't want to. We are shattered, broken and need to be repaired. We have pain, tragedy and hardships in our lives. Satan tries to make that worse. Pain in our lives is like broken glass. 

Jesus is our redeemer. He takes our broken lives and shines his light into it. Even though we are broken and fragile, Jesus picks us up and holds us. Satan wants to pull us away from Jesus. Satan wants us to be broken. Jesus wants us to be not of this world. We are made new through Jesus. We are not trapped in darkness. We are made in Jesus's image. Why?. Because Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Arise and Shine' by Allyson Golden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 10

 Shroud page 10 by ric gustafson

Uzziah handed Peter the leather case. " I need to return right away".

Peter prayed. He smiled at Uzziah. " Travel safely and farewell".

Uzziah left.

With James's help, Peter opened the case. He removed the cloth. He unfolded it.

" What is it Brother Peter?".

" It is the cloth I saw lying in Jesus's tomb".

James became worried. " We must protect it at all cost".

Peter agreed. " Yes, we must protect it from Saul and the Sanhedrin".

They carefully folded the cloth and put it back into the leather case.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jezebel page 2

Jezebel page 2 by ric gustafson

Jezebel and Sapphira walked into the temple. It was quiet because it was midday. In front of a statue of Astarte were a few priestesses. Jezebel walked up to the statue. She stared at the face for a long time. Then she knew what she had to do. She turned to one of the priestesses.

" I need to speak with the diviner".

The priestess shook her head. " The diviner is only for the king's use".

Jezebel raised her voice. " Tell them who I am".

Fear came into the priestess's eyes. " I could go get a girl diviner who is in training".

Jezebel yelled. " Go get her".

The priestess returned with a girl not much older than Jezebel. " This is mistress Tanith".

She frowned. " How may I help you Highness?".

" I wish to ask Astarte about my future".

The young girl prayed to Astarte. Then she sacrificed a pure white dove. Then she walked back to Jezebel and Sapphira.

" You and your friend will be together forever".

Jezebel smiled at her friend. " See I told you".

Then the priestess stared at Jezebel and frowned. " Except the very end".

research help: ' Jezebel' by Megan Barnard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

the Reluctant Beatle page 8

the Reluctant Beatle page 8 by ric gustafson

Headlining the Kaiserkeller was a Liverpool group called Derry and the Seniors. In October of 1960, it was discovered that this group did not have permits to work as musicians. They were ordered to leave the country. 

Their replacement was Rory Storm and the Hurricanes. This group was already friends with the Beatles. The drummer for the Hurricanes was Ringo Starr. The Beatles and the Hurricanes on stage with each other was magical. Ringo was beginning to spend more time with the Beatles than his own group. When Pete Best could not play with the Beatles, Ringo Starr would sit in for him.

At this time, Harrison was interested in a 17 year old German girl. Her name was Monika Pricken. She began to watch the band perform at the Indra Club. Their friendship was platonic. She described George as funny and open. 

Not far from the Kaiserkeller was a club called the Top Ten Club. The owner persuaded the Beatles to play there. Youth Protection got a tip that Harrison was under age. He was ordered to leave the country. In 24 hours, George Harrison was back home in Liverpool.

research help: ' George Harrison the Reluctant Beatle' by Philip Norman 

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Light of the World: the things we want to hide

 Light of the World: the things we want to hide by ric gustafson

There are things we want to hide from the light. We want to hide addictions, sins and failures. When we are trying to hide something from God, it's hard to be a light to others. Even with our dark past and present, Jesus loves us more than anything else. He can still use us as a light. Satan will tell us being in sin in the dark is better than being in the light. 

Jesus wants to be our light in a dark world. Jesus wants to be number 1 in our life. We can become a light for Jesus, healing can come. We can run the race and win. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Arise and Shine' by Allyson Golden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 29

 True Grit page 29 by ric gustafson

I woke up the next morning. I felt like I had just closed my eyes. There was not much water left in the canteen. I grabbed my canvas bucket and revolver. I decided to walk down a steep hill to look for a spring. The slope I was walking down was gentle at first. Then it fell off sharply. As I descended, I had to grab bushes. When I reached the creek bed, I heard noises. On the other side of the spring, a man was watering horses. His back was turned. I knew who it was. I was in shock. He heard me and turned around. He pointed his rifle at me.

" I know you". He frowned. " Your name is Mattie".

I gave him an icy stare. " And I know you Tom Chaney".

" You're little Mattie the bookkeeper". He put his rifle back on his shoulder. " What are you doing here?".

" I came to fetch water".

Chaney looked at me. " Why are you here?".

" I'm going to take you back to Fort Smith".

" I'm not going". Chaney smiled. " What do you think about that?".

" If you refuse to go". I pointed the revolver at him. " I will have to shoot you".

" Then you better cock your piece".

I slowly pulled the hammer back. I aimed at his belly.

Chaney sneered. " I don't believe you'll do it".

I pulled the trigger.

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Jezebel page 1

 Jezebel page 1 by ric gustafson

I stared at the embroidered hanging on the wall. Mother was standing next to me braiding my hair.

I kept staring at the wall. " Who is she?".

Mother glanced at the wall. " That's the goddess Astarte".

I grinned. " She's beautiful".

Mother sighed. " She's a woman who did her duty".

" But Mother you are Queen".

She smiled. She kept braiding my hair. " One day you will be also".

" Will I be remembered like Astarte?".

Mother looked at me. " You are Jezebel princess of Tyre".

I smiled back.

Mother yawned. " Now I must rest before the festival tonight".

research help: ' Jezebel' by Megan Barnard

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oak Ridge Boys page 3

 Oak Ridge Boys page 3 by ric gustafson

William Lee Golden joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1965. He is from Brewton Alabama. At a young age, Golden started playing and singing with his family. Golden always loved listening to the Oaks. He walks to the beat of his own drummer. Golden is a successful artist and photographer.

Duane Allen like William Lee Golden is from a hardworking farm family. His nickname is Ace. Allen's family loved to sing. Allen's family sang day and night. Duane was the youngest and would sing whatever harmony was left. Allen was brought up in Taylortown Texas. He started a radio show in Paris Texas. He moved to Nashville in 1966 and joined the Oak Ridge Boys. Allen is a song man and has kept the Oaks going all these years.

Richard Sterban was born in Camden New Jersey. He lost his father early on, His mother Victoria kept the family going. He was a founding member of the Keystone Quartet. Joe Bonsall became a member of this group. In 1972, Sterban left J D Sumner and the Stamps to join the Oak Ridge Boys.

Joe Bonsall was born and raised in Philadelphia. His parents were World War II vets. He loved to sing since he was little. Bonsall joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1973.

research help: ' On the road with the Oak Ridge Boys' by Joseph S Bonsall

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oak Ridge Boys page 2

 Oak Ridge Boys page 2 by ric gustafson

Bonsall was excited to meet the group's members. Bonsall already was friends with the bass singer of the group. His name was Richard Sterban. Sterban was from New Jersey. He had worked in a department store selling men's clothes. Bonsall and Sterban became friends singing together in the Keystones Quartet. Sterban had been in a group called J D Sumner and the Stamps Quartet. That group eventually sang with Elvis Presley. 

The lead singer for the Oak Ridge Boys was Duane Allen. Bonsall knew him already because he had produced albums for the Keystone Quartet. Bonsall was excited to sing with him.

The baritone singer was William Lee Golden. The Oaks and the Keystone Quartet would do promotions together. Bonsall and Golden had many late night talks. Golden would encourage Bonsall that he had what it took to be a great singer with a quartet.

Bonsall's life changed when Golden called him one day. He told him that the group's tenor was leaving. Golden asked Bonsall if he wanted to join the group. Bonsall said yes. 

Bonsall got on the tour bus and it left for their first gig together. It was in Columbus Ohio. That first night, Bonsall was nervous. They were performing in a building on the Ohio State Fairgrounds. The next night they performed in Cincinnati Ohio. Bonsall's dream of being part of a four part harmony group had come true. Joseph S Bonsall was now an Oak Ridge Boy.

research help: ' On the Road with the Oak Ridge Boys' by Joseph S Bonsall

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Light of the World: God's Presence

 Light of the World: God's Presence by ric gustafson

Do you have dark days?. Have you questioned God's purpose for your life?. God gives us dark days so we can be a light in this dark world. Jesus as the Light does not want to be hidden. We have been chosen by Jesus to be a light. We can not be strong on our own. Jesus wants to show us his grace. 

God's Word says that we will face trials. We feel too heavy to deal with Satan's darkness. Satan tells us we do not need Jesus's light. John 1 says Jesus is the Light of the World. 

We live in spiritual darkness. Jesus as the Light penetrates Satan's darkness.

Why because Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' Arise and Shine' by Allyson Golden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Oak Ridge Boys page 1

 Oak Ridge Boys page 1 by ric gustafson

It was mid October 1973. Landing in Cincinnati at 10 in the morning was Joseph S Bonsall. Waiting to pick him up was a brown Silver Eagle bus. The bus was called ' Chocolate'. Bonsall had been singing in Buffalo New York for seven years with a group called ' The Keystones'. 

One reason he was there was because he needed the money. His wife Barbara was pregnant and he had bills to pay. But Bonsall kept singing and paying his bills. He was 25 and had a strong faith in God. He believed in the saving power and grace of Jesus. He knew that Jesus was guiding his life. 

Bonsall was a Philadelphia kid who had dreamed of singing in a harmony group.

He was excited to get on that bus. At 25, he was joining a great gospel group. It was a group he knew about before he joined the group. The group was called the ' Oak Ridge Boys'.

research help: ' On the road with the Oak Ridge Boys' by Joseph S Bonsall

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Light of the World: where is the light?

 Light of the World: where is the light? by ric gustafson

Jesus says be a light. What do you mean be a light?. How can I be a light when I am filled with darkness. Every day, we are exposed to grief and suffering. The brokenness of this world weighs on us. Jesus says give me your burdens. We struggle to see Jesus's light. Satan tries to keep us from the light. 

When we feel that we do not know where the light is, Jesus says I am here. Jesus proclaims that he is the Light of the World. Jesus loves us. His light will always be there.

research help: ' Arise and Shine' by Allyson Golden

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Inferno 2024: Inferno 1: 1-3

 Inferno 2024: Inferno 1: 1-3 by ric gustafson

You're not the first to be lost

and will not be the last

you're not the first to count the lost

Of being ruined outcast

from the city that you would call your own

you might pray and fast

But never can you go back home

a new path lies ahead

a life you'll have to lead alone

And so you dream instead

of an imagined friend

pulled straight out of your head

A poet who can mend

the bent and broken life you've led

a poet who can send

You places that the small soul dreads

the world of reckoning

with the living and with the dead

Who will reach you to sing

a song of loss and then of grace

relieve you of your mourning

And lead you to the face

of her you've loved so long and well

redeem you from disgrace 

but first you'll have to go through hell

research help: ' Dear Dante' by Angela Alaimo O'Donnell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 28

True Grit page 28 by ric gustafson

We left McAlester's around noon. We then began to ride east and then south. To get to the Windy Stair Mountains, we rode across open prairies and open hills. At one point we stopped.

" This will do".

It was well after midnight, we were in a pine forest up in the hills.

LaBoeuf began to tend to the horses. " Where are we Cogburn?".

The Marshal wrapped himself in a buffalo robe. " I calculate we are about 4 miles from Pepper's hideout".

I grinned. " I hope Chaney is with them".

Cogburn yawned. " We'll find out in the morning".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 5:40

at the feet of Jesus: Matthew 5:40 by ric gustafson

Jesus does not want us to be too attached to possessions. We are not to let them get in the way of our discipleship. 

Why do we love possessions?. Is it how they make us feel?. Do things define us?. The truth is things are temporary. When we leave here, we can't take them with us. 

What we need are treasures from heaven. What is more important physical possessions or the kingdom of God?. It is our choice. 

research help: ' At His Feet' by Chris Tiegreen

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Matthew 6: 33-34

 Chosen: Matthew 6: 33-34 by ric gustafson

Today brings trouble. It is easy to be worried about tomorrow. Jesus says do not worry. With his first miracle at a wedding, Jesus declares triumph over trouble. We worry about everything large and small. Jesus wants us to surrender our worries and instead trade them for kingdom seeking. Jesus says trust me and do not worry. 

Jesus says trust me with the little things. Jesus says trust me with everything. We are not to worry but to seek Jesus and his righteousness.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 9

 Shroud page 9 by ric gustafson

Crispus heard the wagon stop outside the front door. He heard a knock. He opened it to reveal Brother Jonai and his son .

" Brother Jonai". He smiled. " Barnabas told me you would be coming".

" Here is the case from Barnabas". Jonai handed him the leather case.

" We were instructed to return right away to Jerusalem".

Crispus grinned. " Peace be with you".

" Peace be with you". Jonai and his son quickly left. 

Later, Crispus and his wife opened the leather case. They took out a simple wooden goblet.

Crispus smiled. " This is the chalice used during Jesus's last meal".

Crispus's wife looked around. " We need to keep it someplace where it will not get damaged or lost".

Crispus put the goblet back into the leather case. " I will bury it in the western corner of the room".

In Jerusalem, Mark took the face cloth out of the leather case.

" Brother Mark" exclaimed his friend Machlah. " What is that?".

" It is Jesus's face cloth". He began to cry. " His blood is on it".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 8

 Shroud page 8 by ric gustafson

Barnabas stared at Joseph. " Can you bring me the four relics?".

Joseph pointed at his two oldest sons. " Will you bring me the relics?".

Charinus brought in the two cloths. He handed them to Barnabas.

Barnabas put the face cloth into a leather case. Then he carefully folded the Shroud. He put it into a leather case.

Lenthius gave Barnabas the crown of thorns and the cup. Both were put into leather cases.

Barnabas looked at Joseph. " Only Peter, James and I will know where these leather cases go".

" Ok".

" Four wagons including Jonai and his son Joachim will deliver the cases".

" Ok".

The wagons left.

Joseph turned to Barnabas. " A weight has been lifted from me".

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 2: 6-11

 Chosen: John 2: 6-11 by ric gustafson

At a wedding reception, a crisis was forming. Wine was a staple at meals and wedding receptions. At this wedding reception, the wine ran out. It was a humiliation for the groom's family. They were hosting the reception. 

Jesus's mother came to her son. He was attending the reception with his disciples. She told her son there was no more wine. She was asking her son for help. Only she knew he could help. 

Jesus instructed the servants what to do. Jesus turned giant jars of water into wine. 

Jesus performed a miracle with few witnesses. From then on, the disciples witnessed Jesus perform many miracles. Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: John 1: 43,45,46

 Chosen: John 1: 43,45,46 by ric gustafson

Come and see Jesus said to Philip. Follow me. That's all Philip knew of the one he believed to be the Messiah. Jesus knew Philip's friend Nathanael. That surprised him. Nathanael said to Jesus how do you know me?. Jesus replied I saw you under the fig tree. Nathanael proclaimed that Jesus was the Son of God the King of Israel. 

Because Jesus was from Nazareth, Nathanael was skeptical. He spoke his mind. Jesus called him honest. 

Jesus knew Nathanael and knew how he was. Jesus loved Philip and Nathanael. 

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 7

 Shroud page 7 by ric gustafson

Joseph sat in his cell. The door was sealed. A guard was posted outside. 

" You can't keep me here" yelled Joseph. " Jesus will set me free".

In the solitude and darkness of the cell, Joseph began to pray. Joseph prayed for forgiveness. He wished he had done more to stand up against the Sanhedrin.

Joseph prayed. " Forgive me forgive me".

At midnight, Joseph could feel the cell begin to shake. Then Joseph felt the whole jail shake.

" Who's there?". Joseph looked scared. " What's happening?".

Then Joseph saw an apparition in the room. He smiled. He recognized who it was.

" Could it be?". Joseph grinned. " Is it really you?".

" It is me". He smiled. " I am Jesus".

" Praise God".

" I have just left the disciples". There was concern in Jesus's voice. " You must leave this place".

" And go where?".

" Go home to Arimathea". Jesus smiled. " Remain there for 40 days".

Joseph took his belongings, the blood soaked cloth, the crown and the cup.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R. Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Shroud page 6

 Shroud page 6 by ric gustafson

The three men carefully used Jonai's pliers and removed the nail holding Jesus's feet to the cross. They had to carefully remove the nail from Jesus's feet. The spikes were carefully removed from Jesus's hands. The last Roman guard, who had been watching them do their work, wiped off the spikes and left. Back on the ground, Jesus's arms were folded on his stomach.

One of Joseph's friends Jehohanan brought a stretcher. It was two long wooden poles with six crossbars. The four men lifted Jesus onto the stretcher. Jesus's ribcage was distended.

" Careful" Joseph warned. " We can lay him in my family's tomb".

When they approached the freshly hewn tomb, dusk was approaching. The tomb was outside the Damascus Gate.

Mary Jesus's mother entered the tomb carrying a torch. Then the others entered with Jesus's body.

Joseph pointed to a spot in the tomb. " Lay him here".

" Spread out the burial cloth".

Jonai and Nicodemus carefully put Jesus on the burial cloth. Nicodemus put mites over Jesus's eyes to keep them shut.

The burial cloth was pulled up and over Jesus. Because of the scourging, blood oozed out onto the burial cloth. The cloth became a pattern of red spots and blemishes.

Then everyone left the tomb. The four tried to move the stone into place. First, it did not move. Finally, they were able to move it into place. 

Everyone left.

research help: ' The Only Witness' by Guy R Powell

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

Chosen: Mark 1: 14-15

 Chosen: Mark 1: 14-15 by ric gustafson

Jesus came to proclaim the kingdom of heaven. That his Father will rule and reign for all eternity. Jesus called for heart change. Jesus asked for an inward transformation. Nothing more Nothing less. 

Simon Peter saw a miracle in Luke 5. Simon fell to his knees and said go away I am a sinful man. Simon Peter witnessed the miracle. He repented. Jesus said do not be afraid. From now on, he would be a fisher of men. Simon Peter left everything to follow Jesus.

Jesus loves us more than anything else.

research help: ' The Chosen devotional' by Broadstreet Publishing

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric

True Grit page 27

 True Grit page 27 by ric gustafson

After leaving the dead bodies at Mr McAlester's, Mrs McAlester served us a nice country dinner. We even had buttermilk. LaBoeuf had his injured arm cleaned and tightly bound. Cogburn had a blacksmith put a shoe on his horse Bo. LaBoeuf had his Sharps rifle repaired.

Marshal Cogburn was anxious to leave.

" Well baby sister, the time has come for me to move fast". His voice hesitated. " It's a hard day's ride to where I am going".

I stared at the Marshal. " No, I am coming with you".

" Mrs McAlester will see to your comfort".

" Let her stay". LaBoeuf grinned at me. " She's already come this far".

" I will be back tomorrow or the next day with Chaney".

I stamped my foot in protest. " I am not quitting when we are so close".

" Cogburn, she's won her spurs".

Cogburn held up a hand. " All right, let it go".

research help: ' True Grit' by Charles Portis

Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric